Staying safe online: My journey as a young activist who is deaf in Nepal
In this blog, Rabita, a young deaf activist from Nepal, shares her journey of promoting digital safety for young people who are deaf. She reflects on the opportunities and risks of the online world, the barriers caused by the lack of resources in Nepali Sign Language, and her call for action to create safer, more inclusive digital spaces. This blog is part of our International Youth Day blogathon 2025.
By Rabita, a young deaf activist
Technology plays a big part in my life as a young woman who is deaf in Nepal. It helps me learn, connect with friends, and share my story. But the internet can also be a risky space. Cyberbullying, scams, and misinformation are threats that many of us face, making it challenging. For young people who are deaf, these risks feel even greater because most safety advice isn’t available in Nepali Sign Language (NSL).
This year, on International Youth Day, the theme is “Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Beyond.” I believe digital safety is part of this too, because a safe online space helps us learn about achieving SDGs goals in a sustainable way for our one future for all.
Why digital safety matters for young people who are deaf
The internet gives us opportunities to join online classes, share ideas, and support each other. But without clear safety guidance in NSL, it’s hard to protect ourselves from online harm and bullying. We need accessible safety tips so every young person who is deaf can use the internet without fear and judgement. My tips for staying safe online:
- Protect your personal information; never share details like your address or phone number online without checking.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable extra security like two-factor authentication.
- Be careful with links and messages from people you don’t know.
- Control your privacy settings and only connect with people you trust.
- Don’t respond to cyberbullying, block bullies, save evidence, and tell someone you trust.
- Check facts before sharing news to stop misinformation from spreading.
- Keep your devices secure with passwords and software updates.
My call to action
On this International Youth Day, I call on schools, communities, and leaders to create more resources in Nepali Sign Language about digital safety. We need workshops, videos, and programmes that help young people who are deaf to learn about online safety.
Young people like me want to be part of building a better, greener world contributing and being part of the SDG goals, but we need safe spaces to learn and act. By combining green skills with digital safety, we can advocate for SDGs and be part of the process.
Let’s make sure no one is left behind. Together, we can create an internet that is safe, inclusive, and powerful for all young people, including those of us who are deaf.
There is no power like the power of youth, let’s use it safely and sustainably.
Categories: Campaigns, Protection from violence
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